Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?

In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money. Are all of these things setting a bad example to the youth of this generation? Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in" to this crowed?

Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable" and that there are no "consequences" for these actions? I would also like to address the clothing that most rappers wear. I think that these clothes are GROSS, and that in my opinion you must have no more than a fourth grade education to think that those clothes make you look good! And in this "article" the writer seems to have the same opinion as mine and states that "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." And he also agrees with me by saying that "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things. Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children."

This blog was created to determine the positive and negative effects from rap music. Again this is "my" opinion and I don't mean to offended anybody. Please keep this blog clean and respectful. Have fun discussing this blog!

Actually the country they put on radios now is really bad, and i dont like that but old country had good lyrics and tunes. And I think rap shouldn't be considered music because its just talking really fast and there's no actual melody.

This is just not true. While some rappers choose to speak very quickly and without melody, rap knows this. It is more an exploration of ideas through language with rhythmic and sometimes melodic means. To say it is not music makes one question your view of art in general.

Rap promotes very explicit behavior and voilence, for evidence just look on youtube, you won't believe how many little girls are dancing provocative as if they are much older, and they do this basically nude. If you pay attention to what music the majority of them are dancing to, it's rap. Rap has not done much for music history, it's the culture that has done tremendous for rhythm. One of the most brilliant musician/singers of music history goes to the black man, the invention of rock and roll! Chuck Berry! That is something that should be carried with a little more pride from the African American culture, however it is more likely to become famous off of explicit and offensive material which wouldn't be a problem to me if it didn't have such an impact on our future.

It is not the rap music that makes them dance like they do. It is the famous artist that dance like that in the videos. For evidence Nikki Minaji, she now has several songs disussing her fat ass, and girls look up to her, hence the teens dancing like Nikki. Don't hate the genre hate the certain artists who have ruined the rap image. :)

I agree with you it's the artist that is the problem not the genre even though I listen to eminem 24/7 it takes a kindergarten student to follow what the artist says and take it literally but I think that anywhere above third grade you have enough commen sense to not follow what the lyrics say.

"the otherside of the world" is everywhere. And why do kids need to be educated about poor ways of life that people choose to live. Its a disgusting way of life and nobody needs to learn about it. Infact, it shouldn't even exist

Ok, and why do you think that the music you listen to is a better life example? 75% of the other genres are about love and heart breaking. Rap is about life ( of course true rap, not all kids like Lil Wayne, Soulija or other "wanna-be rappers" ). Please listen to 2Pac and Eminem. Those are life lessons, not Miley Cyrus crying because she is not loved.

I totally agree that rap music includes a lot of bad stuff but this is my opinion! K pop, which is South Korea pop doesn't include any bad stuff because we have a strict law system. But I think America does...

I think that rap music "IS setting a bad example" and I totally agree on all your thoughts about the sex and drugs and such. This is the reason America is falling into a a hole that I think will eventually end in a second civil war! The rappers either say words really fast that you can't understand or they talk so slow that its not fun to listen to. I think we as Americans should only listen to Christian gospel.

Listen. I'm 14 years old and all of my family listens to a lot of country music except me, because I listen to a lot of rap. Yes, the songs say bad words and have drugs in them. And I'm not talking about that trashy rap on the radio. I'm talking about good songs with drugs in them. Then people say, "country is so clean listen to that." Well as far as modern country goes they talk about getting drunk and partying and leaving their wifes and getting drunk and partying as a good thing. If you actually listened, a lot of rap takes drugs as a bad thing and even sex as a bad thing. And it's ignorant to say that all rap is dirty, because all music of all genres is good and bad. And by the way, I think everyone should listen to what they want to, because music is like art.

I totally agree that rap is setting a bad example for kids and today's society. Kids shouldn't think that doing drugs and being in gangs is "cool". What kind of definition for "cool" is that? I think rap music is digusting because all the rappers do is promote drugs and other bad things. Being a girl myself, I think its just wrong that girls like rap and starting raising their arms to it when all it does is talk about the mistreatment of women. No, being in gangs and doing drugs isn't a culture. It's something people choose to do because they think it's cool. No it's not cool, it' s gross. Being violent and abusive isn't okay either. And going to jail isn't good either. It's not cool to live that way because the rest of the world just shakes their heads. Rap just brainwashes people, especially teens. Teens need to realize that all of those things rappers promote in their songs isn't good. It's all bad and just not right.

I agree that rap music sends kids the wrong message. Kids shouldn't be listening to music about violence, and drugs. The songs tell people that it's okay to so all the stuff we were taught not to, like shooting, fighting, and doing drugs. On the other hand, the kids don't have to listen to the rap music, if it plays on the radio, they can turn it off, and they don't have to but the song on itunes. I listen to rap music, and i respect that it is a genre of music, and I like rap, but I don't think that little kids should be exposed to it. People in gangs take the message of rap and use it in ways they shouldn't. They know that it's a crime to murder, and do drugs, but they do it anyway, because they think that it's okay, or do it to be cool. Well, it's not cool, it's illegal, and shouldn't happen. But it does happen, because rap tells them it is. Rap shouldn't send messages like that. If it didn't there would be less murders and other tragedies.

I agree that rap music has started a bad influence on our generation. There are too many songs that talk about murdering people and commit rape while also taking drugs to get high and get wasted. To many people are getting hooked and listening to this kind of music. While there are still clean versions of the songs people still listen to the dirty version and think doing this stuff is ok. When in reality taking crack and killing people will end you up in prison for life or death. People also think they will be cool or popular if they listen to it which they shouldn't because it's peer pressure. All in all rap will probably never be good and we should have harsher censorship on that kind of stop

I don't agree with most of your views. First of not all rap is about sex, drugs, violence, and money. More mainstream rappers might write more songs about these things but there are many rappers that do not. There are many rappers that don't rap about sex, drugs, violence, and money. For instance Hoodie Allen and Macklemore rap about real issues, and with very little cursing. Also I dont understand what you said about the clothes they wear, becasue rappers have very different styles. For instance Tyler the Creator wears mostly jeans and t-shirts which many people over a forth grade academia level wear. Also songs might just mention sex, drugs violence, money and curse words but if you take the time to read lyrics and understand a song you will then realize that they aren't about those things. All in all you shouldn't judge a type of music with just listening to popular songs.

I completely agree with you! Music is how people express themselves, no matter what genre. And rap can sometimes do more good than harm, contrary to popular belief! A lot f rappers believe in "do no harm".
I also believe that the way a rapper dresses has nothing to do with rap music itself. People are allowed to dress however they want- that is the beauty if America.

I totally think your right. Rap nowadays is repulsive, what happened to rakim and Eric b? I miss the rap that was about racial issues, not about getting money and sex. Why do you think other cou tries hates america? Because of lil Wayne and his whole "gang" I want old rap back not this new plague being shot into our youth's ears.

I disagree. Most rappers are singing about the life they have and the things they have experienced in the areas that they lived in. Songs never say go best someone up or that's it's "what's in". It depends on the listener, if that kid takes it that way then maybe.

It really depends on the lyrics in the rap music. I'll agree that a lot of it does talk about sex, violence, drugs, and money. I don't think even adults need to be listening to any of that I mean what does it hope to accomplish anyway? Clean lyrics and positive outlooks in raps should be praised and I think that that kind of music would be okay for kids to listen to. It's just like any other type of music though in fact there are a lot of songs that don't fall under rap music that talk about the same negative things. That kind of music could set a bad example for younger kids and I think that it most often does. I just think people should be wary of what they let their kids listen to.

"Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable" and that there are no "consequences" for these actions?" I don't believe that rap music is thr factor of bad behavior. There are so many more harmful things in the world that minipulate how we think. For example gviolent video games, sexuall tv, and sexuall movies. It's not just rap music. Rap music is just a good way to express your self.

I think rap music has pros and cons. Rap music does show kids the other side of the world, that the world isn't perfect. Music helps breaks kids out of a bubble they are living in. However many rappers today do glorify this. You asked "is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe these actions are acceptable." I believe with this partly because rap is a very large genre and you shouldnt say all rap music is promoting abuse and drugs because some rappers are using their music to help promote awareness about these crimes and using their fame to try and change the world for the better.

I agree with you here. Sure, some rappers might talk about drugs, violence, sex, etc., but most of it is real life situations. Take rappers like Biggie Smalls and Mackelmore. They talked about real life situations and things people deal with, and just because its categorized in the rap genre, doesn't really mean much.
I also agree with you when you say how music helps people. Music is a universal language- the whole world can identify a sad voice from a happy one. It helps people relate to someone/something, so if rap helps even one id, that it should be accepted and shouldn't be labeled as bad!

Be careful of close-mindedness. I notice that many of the people commenting on this are not understanding all the aspects of music. The thing about rap being a "bad influence" is that it is only a bad influence when kids want it to become a bad influence. All musical genres have some songs can possibly have a bad effect on those who listen. Music will always be that way. However, I think what truly decides whether or not a genre is a good or bad influence on us is what we want to take of it.

I Disagree with what you just said completelybecause when your a kid or a teen your still in the stage of finding yourself maybe the rapper is saying there going threw the same exact thing as what the kid that listens to it is. He or She will eventually think "Hey this person i just like me maybe if i do what he or she says they do to help me" which could be smooking weed drinking having sex it all ties down to it my point is kids cant make a choice on something like that most kids in the world have to follow in order to lead and they dont yet have a mid of there own

Excuse me, here is an example of an ignorant person, close mindedness. I am 13 years old, and yes. I do have a mind of my own. Infact, I have found out my passion and everything, I listen to real rappers. And how could you say kids don't have a mind of their own? That must mean at one point you never had a mind, which makes no sense what so ever. I found out I want to be a rapper when I grow up and I rap about REAL PROBLEMS not just weed and what ever you think kids can't think about but have to copy. And if they copy whatever. Why don't the parents just give them GOOD rappers to look up to? Exactly, close mindedness. It's the parenting too not just the rapper's fault.

I think rap as it is now except for a few rappers who do rap without conveying messages of sex, money and drugs is terrible. Rappers like lil Wayne ruined this genre and have made people think of it as bad. Music wasn't supposed to be about fame and money when it was started but now most rap is saying how great it is to waste money and their lives everyday.

I think rap music can be positive and negative, if one thinks of it as urban poetry then it is positive because it expresses feelings, however, if it is a rule for life then it is negative. Even though "eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence," I don't think that makes everyone who listens to it become a violent person.

I personally don't think that rap music is setting a bad example on anybody really. Personally I think it is the parents responsibility to control what they're kids listen too. But I get your basic I dea..very good topic!the answers will vary.

I personally don't think that rap music is setting a bad example on anybody really. Personally I think it is the parents responsibility to control what they're kids listen too. But I get your basic I dea..very good topic!the answers will vary.

I personally like rap music but i do not feel like it is always a bad influence on children unless they want to be like the people who performs it. Rihanna is not a good role model but does that mean we shouldnt listen to hip hop?

I disagree. I listen to rap music a lot and it's not all bad things. If you really listen to the words they basicly make up poems. Every once and a while there are some bad songs but not all of them are. I think rap music is really cool and creative. Its hard writing songs and people spend so much time on songs that mean a lot to them. Young children will probobly not understand what half the words mean in some songs. So i dont think they are making a bad influence on children. I honestly doubt that rap is being used as a way to make kid believe that those things are "acceptable" or that there are no concquences. Children should know what things are bad and what things arent they shouldn't listen to what rap music says

Well if you ask me i think rap music does not have a bad effect on kids because it provides them with many options. For example rap music gives kids the opportunity to express them selves. There could be a song that is about something completely appropriate but still be in the form of a rap song. Rap music does Not effect someone's life style at all. It could just be a preference of the kind of music they like. I would prefer rap music but that doesn't make me a bad person. The only thing I could think of that would make someone change who they are is peer pressure. Kids shouldn't have to worry if there parents don't like the kind of music they are listening to. They should only worry if it's forcing them to change who they really are. I Know a lot of people who like rap music and they are still the same person that they always were.

I agree that rap music can be a bad influence on kids. It makes them think that drugs, sex, and alchol abuse is cool and normal to do in life and are giving them the wrong idea. Also, maybe if a kid has problems or something they can become"inspired" by the things are said in rap and start to get invloved in illegal things. I think that kids over 13 or 14 can listen to rap with no problem because they are more mature and know what consequenses are. But i think that rap music is terrible for little kids to listen to. They can learn curse words, start being mean to people, and get involved in illegal activites when they get older. Rap music tottaly promotes drugs and violence, which i personally dont think should be allowed in the extremely suggjestive manner they are portrayed in. It can cause parents a lot of trouble too when they cant control their child after they have worked so hard to keep them on the right path. I dont think that adults really know how many little kids are listening to rap music and what they have learned from there. It can shape the future of these children into something bad that also influences others.

Music is a good career to go into and a most go into rap becasue its a good experience i am an a good rapeers and just cause a person raps dont mean dat it is negative I rap about the world and how things should be and alot of rappers do this and about 38% are negative e.g 50 cent personally i dont like him because everything dat he says is a load of carap. Rappers like Jaja Soze talk about the truth and dat is why he is banded from tv because alot of people cant take the truth. 2pac was a good rapper alot of people use him as a bad example toward rap music but he also told the truth and lot of peopler couldnt take it and dats why he got killed.

I completely agree with this. I have also been thinking about this. I remember going on a school trip to the aquarium once, and they had put on "Party Rock Anthem". Even though that song isn't exactly rap what happened next surprised me. There were other schools there too. Most who were in kindergarten or first grade and not only were they singing along loudly, but they were dancing the dance with it! I was shocked. When I was their age, I sang Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, or my ABC's. I believe that music is an influence to little kids, whether good or bad. Nowadays I hear little kids cussing like sailors. Now that's either their older siblings teaching them or the music that they listen to.

Dear Matt, your opinion is that rap music is setting a bad influence on kids. I agree with this. I agree because there are certain rapers that digrate women and send the wrong messages to younger boys.And make them think that they can go around treating people they way the talk in songs. ~Kayla

I think this topic can go either way. Yes, some rapers these days all they talk about in their songs is alcohol and drugs. Yet, sometimes you find a song and it talks about the disadvantages of doing these things and they almost put it into a story in some way. In some of the newest songs that are being put out there, they talk about all the "good times" they have when they do these things. I think the reason people are saying rap is a bad influence is because they think the artist is trying to say, 'I do these things and I always end up fine so it must be okay to do." I don't think that is what ALL rappers are trying to get across. I think they are just trying to relate to teens and what they are going through at those ages.
From my own experience I really like rap but it depends on who is the artist. I don't think listening about guys talk about girls in a mean way is okay nor do I listen to it. I think some of the things these rappers talk about is completely repulsive and some of it is just stupid. Yet on the other hand some times you come across those couple of artists that would rather talk about things that are easy to relate to that is no inappropriate. Yes, each artist/rapper has their own style on how they go about each one of their songs, but some of the things they come up with is just dumb and shouldn't be played. Yet some are respectful and talk about things that don't always have to do with drugs and alcohol. Having three older brothers and listening to the music they listen to I agree with my mom sometimes when she tells them to turn it off. I know that my mom doesn't like hearing those things and other parents probably don't either. I just think they should give it a try and listen to respectful artists and not trashy ones.
Now, when you talk about the clothes of these people, that's another story. I completely agree with you that the fact that these boys think its 'hot' to wear their pants down to their knees or the fact that girls need to wear extremely high heels is a little ridiculous. Also I don't get some of these girls' hair. Pink? Neon purple? I think it is a little outrageous.

Rap is construed as being bad for the community and being bad for youth in many ways. What people fail to realize is that there is a lot more to rap then just gangs, violence, drugs, and so on. What most people are doing is profiling rap music which is wrong. In researching this topic I have found that not all rap is bad and if people were to open their minds a little more about this topic they would find the same thing. In my research I found a number of rappers that gave good messages and had a positive influence of their community. There are also different types of rap that promote good messages like Christian rap and conscious rap to name a couple. So when people say that rap is bad I say open your eyes a little more and research what you don’t know.

Check Your History!! When HipHop came out, it gave the marginalised youth something to chanel their energies into something positive instead of getting invovled in the vices of the the street life. Hip Hop was mixed with break dancing, street art etc. These activities were an outlet for these people to put their engergy into something productive. Hip Hop also encouraged black people to fight the power and opression, to protest, they helped black people understand the underhanded and crafty ways of the government and society. Hip Hip ignited protests throughout most American cities. NOW A DAYS, you've got these industries who are aware of the impact that these artists have on the the status quo, so what do they do? They captialise on the fact that most of these artists are coming from impoverished cities who will do anything to make it in the industry...so they dumb down the content of their tracks to make a couple millions. At the end it's about captial unfortunately. Theres different generes of Hip Hop, there's underground, old skool, gangsta, buble gum, commericial, etc. You cannot generalise about a whole genre without expanding your knowledge other types of HipHop. Be open to different things, you dont have to always agree with them. But Hip Hop is a reflection of black culture, oppression, marginlisation, ect. Take it as an education, you can learn from anyone, a person with a PHD isn't the only person you can learn from. BE OPEN MINDED TO OTHER PEOPLE'S EXPERIENCES, as for it takes all types to make up the world.

Mattgriff,
While I think that you did a nice job arguing one side of this, I think you are being a little too close-minded. I don't believe that simply a genre of music is going to "turn" kids bad. This just doesn't seem very possible. Also, you comment on the clothing that rappers wear and say that you must have "no more than a fourth grade education" to wear those clothes. Just because someone dresses a certain way doesn't mean they aren't educated; it is a choice. I'm not a huge rap fan myself, so that is not why I'm defending it; I just think you could be a little more open-minded while still expressing your opinion.
emurnin

Whoever wrote this should really shut up and get your facts right not all rappers talk about sex and drugs there are soe rappers who dedicate some of there songs to slavery and how wrong it is. so is that also a bad example for the youth????? I DON'T THINK SOOO !!!!

Dear Matt,
I am astounded by your response on how rap music affects the young. One sentence that stood out to me was when you said that 80% of the rap music today that is currently on the top ten list around the world contains violence. From where I come from most rap that my friends hear is about sex so this is actually a surprise. Thanks for writing and I look forward to what you write next.

I am pleased with your post , Is rap music setting a bad example for younger kids, because it does have a negative influence on their speech. I see little 5 year olds cursing because of this music almost every day on the train. I do think that more should be sai d about the good music that exists out in the music world but other than that you did a good job in explaining your point.

For younger kids I believe that you can't shield younger kids from violence and money. They will be exposed to the material before they are 7. Sexual refrences in rap music is usually vague so younger kids probably wouldn't even get the message the rapper is trying to convey(If they could even understand the rapper). Also I think its kind of a streach for a young kid to hear aboud drugs in rap music and then think "Oh I need to find some drugs to try." without their parents finding out.

There are different things happening in the world, people fall in love, and there are love songs. People are sad and there are sad songs. People also get involved in drugs, and sex, and violence. So why shouldn't there be songs about that? Kid need to know, that not everything in the world is perfect. There are bad place, and good place. People are depressed, and can have addictions. My whole family hate rap music. I love it. It is just reminding me of stuff that happens in the world. This planet isn't perfct, people die. And people make rap music, I think it is a parents desicion, If you dont want your kid hearing rap music, Dont let them listen too it. But I honestly don't think it has a bad a effect.

I do not agree. By what is being said I believe that you are judging a book by its cover. Saying that all rap music is sending a bad message is NOT true. Dont get me wrong, there is alot of rap out there that is promoting bad messages but what genre of music does not have any songs with bad messages? Rap has been given a bad reputation because it is a newer genre. This same reputation was also given to rock n roll when it was the newer genre of music. It was considered "vulgar" when Elvis Presley would swing his hips to this new music. People are naturally cautious of newer genres. In my opinion, raps exhibits messages in a deeper more personal level than any other types of music which can either offend people or attract people, either way I think it is good that this rap is so straight up about the world because the only reason that people dont like these lyrics is because they are literally afraid to face the fact that society is messed up. I believe the only way to make a change in this messed up society is to face that fact that people are turning to bad things like drugs, if we keep trying to hide this fact then it cant be fixed, whether the rap is sending bad messages or good messages, it is getting the word out to everyone so that we can all start trying to fix these issues instead of pretending like they are not there!

If you think that all rappers are related to "gangs" is not true either, most rappers call their fan bases "gangs". For example, the "gang associated with Macklemore is "shark face gang" which is not a REAL gang, it represents his fans. I do believe that SOME rappers clothes are "gross" but that further proves my point that the commen sense people of the world can see this as trashy then maybe this is another issue that can be fixed.

I disagree with rap being a bad example because I'm 12 years old and most people who listen to rap have better english grammar because you naturally hear a word that you don't know like imbecile and you think I've never heard that word before I wonder what it means. Eminem started as a bad example but listen to his song When I'm Gone it's a popular song in my school but it's not bad and Logic Gang Related it's based on how his life happened Logic Nikki it's about him quitting smoking Nikki referring to nicotine so not all rappers are bad also a song you should check out is Logic Under Pressure the full song it's just amazing

Dear Matt Griff:
I am intrigued with your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," because you propose an interesting idea about the idea of rap music affected the younger generation. They can be easily be affected at a young age, and all the sex, drugs and violence in the lyrics can really leave an impact on kids.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: " Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in" to this crowed?" I think this is interesting because kids now have to feel like they fit into school. Kids will do anything to become “popular”, even if it is bad for them and affect their future.
Another sentence that I liked was: "I would also like to address the clothing that most rappers wear." This stood out for me because I definitely with your point. The clothes that the artist are inappropriate and unrealistic, which gives kids a bad image.
I do surely agree with you that rap music is a bad example to younger kids. One reason I say this is because kids can be easily affected at a younger age, and the topic of rap music is very inappropriate. Another reason I agree/disagree with you is because the videos show the artist doing drugs or throwing around money, giving kids a bad example about what life is really about.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you gave very good points of your argument. I think that you very well described both sides of the argument, which made it more interesting to read.

Dear Matt:
I am very happy about your post, "Is Rap Settling a Bad example to Younger Kids?” ," because, I thought that I was the only one that thought of Rap music as a very violent and repetitive type of music, Fortunately enough for me, you are also thinking about Rap music being very violent.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Are kids being pressured by this music because it’s “what’s in” and in order to be “popular” you have to listen and act like you “fit in” this crowd?” " I think this is amazing because, it poses the perfect question to ask with this type of music being listened by kids.
Another sentence that I adored was: “Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are “acceptable” and that there are no “consequences” for these actions?" This stood out for me because, it poses another question about the possibilities of what rap music can be doing to the younger crowd listening to it.
I do absolutely agree with you that rap music influences young people with the wrong ideas and that the type of music is very violent to their rhythm and those that are trying to fit in. One reason I say this is because, I know people that are in the more popular crowd and always talk about raps and music that is popular and start singing it. Another reason I agree with you is because, many of the rap music out there do not send messages that should be heard by the younger crowd and should not influence the younger crowd as well.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because, you discuss your opinion in a very flowy manner to read. To clarify, you throw your ideas out in an order that makes sense and helps your readers follow through all that you wrote. You also provided your readers with some examples from the real life as to what other people said in reality.

Dear Matt:
I am delved in thought with your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," because many things you said about rap music is very true, and that unlike some arguments that don't make sense such as video games making you fail school, the thought of rap music setting a bad example can be true. Rap music is controversial, and has always been in the past. One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money." I think this is very thoughtful because it obviously isn’t a good thing to introduce these topics to children when not necessary (When I say necessary, I mean as in Health Classes), and I agree that children should be kept away from these topics when they don’t need to learn about them. However, I feel that a flaw in this is that rap music is so fast and inaudible, children probably won’t understand what the rapper is saying! Also, when I was in 3rd Grade children knew a lot of things they shouldn’t have. I actually learned about these things from the children in my class, and once I was in 5th grade and I actually understood rap music, it didn’t matter for anyone since we already knew about these things. Another sentence that I found interesting was: "Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable" and that there are no "consequences" for these actions?" This stood out for me because children don’t know that these things have consequences, and it is terrible that they think this is acceptable. However, you are overestimating the power of a child’s ability to understand these things. Even though they hear these degrading things, they don’t comprehend the music as something they will follow, but more as just something catchy. When children fully understand the messages in rap, they are more responsible and know what to do. Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time when I was in Kindergarten, one child had to be sent home because he brought a LIGHTER to school! When his parents came to pick him up, his dad said that he actually was aware of this and always used a lighter in front of his child. I don’t think that rap is a big of a negative influence as parenting is since children look up to their parents! Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because this article was very interesting, and I love to read articles about arguments such as this one. I am excited to see what arguments you will post next, because they are definitely interesting to read!

Dear Matt :
I am intrigued by your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," because most of the points that you declared on your post may be discussable in a negative or positive way. Most of your opinions I do agree with but there are a few of them that I disagree with.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money." I think this is arguable because it all depends on the type of rap that one listens to. Not all rappers or raps focus on these ideas.

Another sentence that I found intriguing was: "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things. Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children" This stood out for me because it is true. Although some violent or bad raps are at the top of most favorite it doesn’t mean that all rappers rap about negative things. Some of these raps that people think are negative may be based on someone’s experience or story. Raps aren't always put out there for kids to follow but to listen and learn from it.

I do agree with you that there are some rappers that keep their lyrics polluted. One reason I say this is because most rappers nowadays receive more views when they use profanity. Another reason I agree with you is that in today’s generation most kids enjoy listening to things with violence or if its cool/ in-style.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you have a great point on rap and discussable topics about music. Music is my passion and anything to do with will bring me back to read more.

Dear MattGriff
I am agreeing with your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?
," because music today has been a repetition of stories or lifestyles that singers show shamelessly. These ways of living life are indeed illegal but kids watch their role models lead so they attempt to follow is what people like you and me are afraid of. Your post had said "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." This quote blatantly shows that people are encouraging the extol towards the music that contains all this violence and ignorance. Setting a bad example for younger kids is what I can come up with as a very good concern but also being the reason why the people that imitate these actions think its “alright’’. Mainly this happens to be because its done freely and shamelessly on music videos or lyrics for all to hear. Freedom of speech is a right that everyone has but what about disrupting the peace of a child's thoughts. Children are known to be sponges of their surroundings. Not only the artist are to blame about this issue but parents equally. But what's to do when the song is played on the local radio or kids at school have it suck in their heads already? Nothing the damage has already been done.
This reminds me of a day in my younger childhood and this song Milkshake was so cool to my teen cousin and it got stuck in my head, and I went home to my grandparents and sang “my milkshake brings all the boys to the yard”. Then you can imagine how much trouble that got me into that day. Even though some kids don't actually notice how horrible the lyrics are its just the concept that kids are nosy and sooner than later will find out and it didn't stop them when they didn't know.. so nothing will stop them now. All because its a trend that their idol presents.

Hello, MattGriff.
Rap music is setting a bad example for young people- teenagers especially. I highly agree with the statement "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." and that "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money." I firmly believe that Rap music, unless you're dealing with Eminem and/or Mackelemore, it isn't real music. Eminem is, yes, a rapper. He sings about having a crappy life, and rising out of it. Mackelemore is another rapper that recently came out, yes. He sings about important things- like how we value materials so much, when we could do without this or that.
I grew up listening to Punk Rock music. To me, that is true music. Look at Black Veil Brides, who are a Punk Rock band. They sing about always being yourself, and not to let anyone bring you down, despite the fact that they dislike you for not living by your standards. I believe that The Silver Bulletz will carry that same message.

I am pleased with your post because I agree with you completely with women not aborting their child. If they can’t take care of their baby, then they should let another person who can. Also if they knew that they weren’t ready for a baby, they should have been more careful.

One sentence you wrote that stands out to me is “This means that teenagers are having abortions because they don't take care of themselves or they don't know how to.” I agree with this because since they're basically kids themselves, how are they going to be able to care for another child. Also they are still gonna be young and going to want to be in the streets all the time, not wanting to worry about a baby.

Another sentence that stood out to me was “ I do understand that if a woman was raped, or if a doctor considers that it is a risk for the woman to have the baby, then abortion should be allowed for those cases.” I don’t really agree with this because even though you were raped, the baby thats inside of you didn’t have nothing to do with that. How can you kill an innocent , the baby didn’t do nothing to you.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you wrote next because this post that you wrote was good and I hope that the others are as good as this one.

I am influenced by your post, ",Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?" because it is a
very good topic that a lot of people can relate to. This topic can influence kids and adults. One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things. " I think this is true because there are a lot of rappers that make music that is not appropiate for children. There are a lso rappers that make good music that is still rap that can actually motivate kids.

Another sentence that I liked was: "Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in" to this crowed?." This stood out for me because I have seen it happen. A lot of kids try to do whatever it takes to fit in. Rap music has affected al otof children lives. They think that they can be grown like the rappers. Many rappers send a bad influence to kids and teenagers.Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time I seen a whole buch of kids on the train listening to Lil Wayne. They were rapping to his songs and saying that they wanted to be like him. Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because this subject is helpful for everyone.

Kids are not stupid, they don't need to be acepted in any group or dance like the would be making sex. Rap may say wathever they want to like everybody else can, tey ussualy tell us about the lifestyle and the violence in wish they are nad maybe we are not, Yes, there are some violence in their lyrics because there are some violence in their life and that's why listen to rap is not a bad influence, it is a awareness

Dear Matt,
I am interested with your post, "Is Rap Music setting a bad example to younger kids?," because I think there are some rap music that influence children to behave in belligerent.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things. Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children." I think this is true because not all rappers are bad. Some artist have a real purpose/ message that young children can learn about life.

Another sentence that I found important was, "Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you fit into this crowd?" This stood out for me because nowadays, many children are just listening to rap to fit with their friends. Others might start listening due to peer pressure.

I do agree with you that the clothes used in rap videos are not appropriate for young children to see. One reason I say this is because most rappers wear their pants too low and without a shirt. Children should wear clothes that looks presentable and appropriate.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because it seems like we have the same ideas about our generation and the music. I like how you linked evidence to support your opinion.

I am intrigued your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," because with certain points you made I did agree with you. There were a few points that I did not agree with you

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." I think this is interesting because I did not know that such a wide range of them do rap about these things, even though I did know that most of them do.

Another sentence that I read was: "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things. Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children." This stood out for me because I do agree with you, but sometimes even when they rap about positive things there are negative involved.

Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time my friends and I were comparing the old school rap to the new school rap. When we were doing this we noticed that before they rapped about more realistic things that many people can relate to. Things have kind of changed since then.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you use all of your opinions in your posts. Your writing is not only your opinion it is also based on researched sources.

I am lost by your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," because I’m sure that you listen to these type of music or better yet like these type of music. I’m also lost because most of these rap music comes from us kids today and that is because the rappers make music
that we the fans want to listen to!

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable" and that there are no "consequences" for these actions?" I think this is powerful because who in their right mind would do something that a rapper do and don’t think nothing will happen to them. This is powerful because don’t matter who you are in the world, whenever you do something wrong you get into trouble for it.

Another sentence that I felt was: "I would also like to address the clothing that most rappers wear." This stood out for me because I’m not too sure if you are a girl or a boy but I’m pretty sure you are not holy. This also stood out for me because people wear whatever they want to wear and I don’t see why you should try to change that at all and I’m sure that you know that these rappers have money, so that mean they going to spend it on whatever they want!

I don't joyfully agree with you that rappers are bad for kids. One reason I say this is because some rappers are good rappers and they help other people out. Another reason I disagree with you is because rappers of 2013 are good rappers and they make good music that kids could listen to.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next,because I would like to know what kind of music you listen to!

Dear Matt:
I am astonished with your post, “Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?” because you believe the same things I believe in. People under the age of eighteen should not be able to listen to rap music if they are easily influenced. As for the parents who allow their child to listen to rap music should no longer allow it; if their parents are not aware of the types of music their underage child is listening to they should simply check their phone.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: “Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them.” I think this is true because majority of the rappers today influence people to do things they're doing like the people try to live the lifestyle the rappers are living when they can’t afford to do so. Also, rappers like Chief Keef is known for getting people hyped up with the beat and lyrics from his songs; Chief Keefs music sometimes causes people to do stupid things.

nother sentence that I agreed with was: “There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things.” This stood out for me because I can’t name one rapper off the top of my head that raps about positive things. I do completely agree with you that rap music affects younger kids in a negative way. One reason I say this is because people sometimes react to the type of music they listen to. Especially if their easily influenced.
Another reason I agree with you is the way the rappers dress; every rapper sags their pants because they are comfortable with the way it is, or it’s the “trend”. I hope all of these grown men know where sagging of the pants originated from. And if they do it’s sad because they shouldn’t be comfortable with portraying that that is the correct way to carry yourself.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you state interesting facts. What will bring me back to read more of your post is we somewhat think alike. Your arguments are really relevant to the struggles that young people are facing in this day and age.

Music has polluted what we do or think. it hip hop mainstream is so strong it blocks out

positive so call “alternative” hip hop that much more acceptable to a younger generation.

they find ways to block it from the mainstream and gives all the popular rapper their shine but it hard for the positive to shine too. There are rappers like Macklemore and others put it not consider “real rap” or not what would be hot. Most send positive messages and are to get signed, or air play and good promotion. I feel like if the had more positive lives the kids would relate and think positive about life. their life maybe tough but the music how they cope.

Your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," caught my attention because all kids listen to now-a-days is rap music and most of them are bad influences for them.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money." I think this is so,so true because almost ALL rappers rap about those things. I think I know only to about two rappers that don’t rap about music 100% of the time.

I agree with you that the clothing rappers wear is gross. One reason I say this is because their style of dressing is too “hood”. Pants to the waist and baggy shirt aren’t a good look, to me.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because your post was very interesting to me.

Hi MattGriff,
I greatly appeciate your topic. It's always been given mixed feelings. I'm a white female yet I grew up listening to rap/hip-hop. There is a severe difference in the rap on the radio and rap that is not broadcasted on the radio. Lil Wayne, Drake, etc. are broadcasted rappers and I don't particularly like them. Sure, some tunes of theirs are catchy yada yada but that does not take away from the disrespect and violence they portray towards women and men. If you want to listen to REAL rap music that actually is intellectually stimulating listen to Atmosphere, Brother Ali, Aesop Rock, Eyedea & Abilities, The Grouch, Murs, Common, and the list goes on and on. Their talent exceeds any rapper that is "rapping" on the radio. P.S. Lil Wayne should not be famous. He's disrespectful and has no talent.

Dear matt,
:i think if the kid restricted by the music its not just rappers and rap music all music has nicks and patterns of violence and rap has it bad reps and looks, lyric but it only bad because of double standards set by the music past. and the past we persevere but never look forward to the future positive rap also call underground has most positive and upbeat lyrics. so it not to stop kids from listening to rap its to turn from hood rap. so this is what I have so i would like your feedback and thank you for your time.

It all depends on the rappers, like for instance Eminem & Yelawolf have alot of inspirational songs even though their pasts arent all that great they are still good people, just have their mistakes. I personally think rap is very inspirational and make you a stronger person.

I think that rap is a great thing, maybe some people say that its all about drugs, violence, and money, BUT its not! If a kid lives in the ghetto or a not very sucssesful enviornment than Rap is like the only way they can get out into the world and get a better life!

Dear Matt:
I am astonished with your post, “Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?” because you believe the same things I believe in. People under the age of eighteen should not be able to listen to rap music if they are easily influenced. As for the parents who allow their child to listen to rap music should no longer allow it; if their parents are not aware of the types of music their underage child is listening to they should simply check their phone.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: “Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them.” I think this is true because majority of the rappers today influence people to do things they're doing like the people try to live the lifestyle the rappers are living when they can’t afford to do so. Also, rappers like Chief Keef is known for getting people hyped up with the beat and lyrics from his songs; Chief Keefs music sometimes causes people to do stupid things.

Another sentence that I agreed with was: “There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things.” This stood out for me because I can’t name one rapper off the top of my head that raps about positive things. I do completely agree with you that rap music affects younger kids in a negative way. One reason I say this is because people sometimes react to the type of music they listen to. Especially if their easily influenced.
Another reason I agree with you is the way the rappers dress; every rapper sags their pants because they are comfortable with the way it is, or it’s the “trend”. I hope all of these grown men know where sagging of the pants originated from. And if they do it’s sad because they shouldn’t be comfortable with portraying that that is the correct way to carry yourself.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you state interesting facts. What will bring me back to read more of your post is we somewhat think alike. Your arguments are really relevant to the struggles that young people are facing in this day and age.

I am confused by your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example for younger kids?" because this is absurd. I don't think there is any record of any child doing something bad based on the music that they listen to. I am a kid myself that listens to rap. My friends and I make fun of the rapper's clothes, but who cares about the content. Many people listen to music to distract them and take them to another world. It's their choice on what they want to hear.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable" and that there are no "consequences" for these actions?" I think this is a bad claim because, again, no kid has done something and blamed it on music. It is usually peer pressure that makes someone do that.

Another sentence that I did not like was: "Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in" to this crowed?" This stood out for me because everyone has their own style in music. No one looks at the type of songs you listen to and go oh your not cool. Who cares if you listen to some other type of music? No one looks at that to judge someone.

I don't agree with you that rap music is setting a bad example for kids. One reason I say this is that kids should know whats right and what is wrong. The music should not influence them, and it does not mean to influence. everyone has enough of a knowledge to know what is right. Another reason I disagree with you is that music is music. It may be inspirational. It may be random. It doesn't matter. It should not obsess someone and make them do whatever it says in the rap songs about violence.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because I love music and want to know what happens with this.

I do not agree with your opinion. While some rap music may be setting a bad example in terms of sex and drugs and other things discussed in the music you also make some irrelevant points. When you say that you have to be in fourth grade to think the clothes they wear look good that is not only irrelevant but a bit offensive. What does it matter what clothes that they wear? It's not like their influence is affected by the clothes. Also, in rap most rappers are just rapping about their life styles and it is up to the children to decide whether to follow these or not. Despite children being impressionable, rap music is only one thing that they are probably exposed to throughout their childhood. They must take it into their own hands to decide what they want to do, and if it does happen to be rapping then there is nothing wrong with that in my opinion.

Rap music may have explicit language and ideas in them but it's not like the children go out searching specifically for this music it's because of the lack of attention from the parents that they are influenced by this music. If a child does manage to gain access to this music then its up to the parent to inform them that what the rapper is saying shouldn't be seen as a positive thing and that if they do like the music they can listen to it but don't let it change them or push them to do whatever they talked about.

Whats up Matt, my english class and I are writing responses to topics on p2pu that interest us. Your topic on rap music really got my eye and got my attention. In your blog you ask if rap is affecting the choices we young people are making and the way we decide to live our lives. My response is yes the rap music affects the way I dress all the way down to the way I think. Every time I listen to Wiz Khalifa I want to lit up an L or if I listen to Gucci mane I want to sell drugs and gangbang. When a famous rapper promotes something it kind of does make it acceptable because rappers are somewhat above normal circumstances . Rappers have this inspiring effect on our minds because whether they are living right or wrong they do what they want. Rap music can be great for u or devastating it all relies on how you take the advice and the actions that follow.

I feel bad for idiots who think they will make it in the music industry as rappers. Yoiu know what they call me? They call me a hater. That has got to be the dumbest, most ignorant statment that i have ever heard in my life. Seriously if these people think they WiLL make it, the fuck it i really dont give a 2 shits about these idiots. Rap is absolutely garbage now and days, its worst then trash and our youth is completely getting fucked over by main stream media and music industries. And then people wonder, why are our kids so fucking retarded? Well if you really think about it. the Elites want our children to be morons so that their children can dominate over the moronic people. People tell me that God and the Devil do not exist. But clearly the Devil is running the show, i mean seriously, why is the bad being hailed in our music? HAving sex and getting drunk is most important for our youth? Best to raise your children home schooled, isolated from the world, they will be far better off, then surrounded by dumb ass rappers who simply call you a hater because you set the facts straight and notify them that rap aint gunna get them anywhere.

I find your comment to be a bit harsh. In many cases what you said is true, it is unlikely that someone will become successful through rapping and yes, some rappers set a bad example for the youth. However, there is no need to be so angry about it, rap is not the sole cause for everything bad that happens. If there was no rap, people would still be influenced to do things that they shouldn't do, that is just the way people are. It is unfair to blame rap for all of the problems that you said it creates and completely deny it's positive side. It gives many people an outlet to express themselves and if someone has a passion for it who are you to tell them that they should not follow it?

I dont think so! the cloths are more then 100 jeans,shirts 400$shoes
and rap exspress there child hoods and how they grew up and how by starting from the bottom the only people who cared as brothers are his gang and by rapping helped buy cloths before put food on the table get what everyone needs and i think rap is one of the best gernes out there cause it shows you a low class turn into a better person .i rather them dress like that and rap like that then them robbing and killing for money and food .

I agree with this article, but only to a certain extent. Music is a form of art- a way to express yourself, and rap is a genre within that form of art. It might cause kids to be influenced by the lyrics of the song, but rap music doesn't specifically promote that! Rappers don't say in their songs to go do drugs, they talk about drugs and their experience with it! I feel like if a id listens to rap and then decides to take the lyrics to a whole new level and do what it says, then that is the ids fault. Music is something beautiful that was created for people to be able to express themselves and they're thinking. Rappers do just that, it doesn't matter if they wear thousands of dollars worth of shoes and clothes or that their lyrics are the truth.
For example, look at some of the rap songs from 2013. Same Love my Mackelmore promotes gay rights. Or Be Healthy by Dead Prez that promotes a healthy lifestyle and healthy eating habits. It all depends on how much you understand rap and and how far you take rap. These songs are still rap, but they send out a positive message and the singers are still able to express their feelings through it!

If you wanna listen to good rap, listen to rappers such as Hopsin or Hoodie Allen that rap about meaningful things or Eminem. Again, if rap was influencing society, its done because SOCIETY wants them to listen to this type of music, not because rappers or music industries do.

I do agree with you that rap music has a lot of violence in it these days and i feel that you have really shown kids that music is an art of expression and what I am trying to say with this is that in these past few years peoples emotions ride on an emotional roller coaster of hatred. I really like that you told the readers that you think rap is a bad influence but in a way people are also trying to just take out their feelings in a rap.

I am not going to agree with your blog, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?" because it is not at all true. Rap music is around to just listen to. We don’t have to do what the rappers say in their songs because we are not them.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "I would also like to address the clothing that most rappers wear. I think that these clothes are GROSS, and that in my opinion you must have no more than a fourth grade education to think that those clothes make you look good!" I think this is preposterous because first, this comment has nothing to do with the article. Another reason is because rappers do what they want to do regardless of what anyone, like you, think of them.

Another sentence that I saw was: " They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." This stood out for me because not all rap music discuss things like that. Most of the rappers don’t even do the things they rap about, like Drake, for an example.

Your blog reminds me of something that happened to me. One time my mother was questioning the music I was listening to. I was listening to Drake a while ago and she heard some of his lyrics and she did not like them. I tried to explain to her that just because I listen to the music does not mean that I will do what is in the music.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because I feel like you will have a good argument in return. You have your opinion and I always respect others’ opinions, always.

I am a student at J H Rose high school. I am in total agreement with your blog because the way rappers now a days talk and what they talk about is absurd. I am a fan of rap music and I enjoy the beat but the words have no morals now a days. The sentence that stands out to me is “Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in" to this crowd?” "Does Modern Rap and Pop Music Have a Negative Influence on Children?" The Premier Online Debate Website. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2013. My answer to that is yes. I think this because of the actions you see children do and even in their appearance. In schools you will see proof to what the videos and songs by how the children act. They dress like rappers and even sometimes talk like them. I’m learning in one of my classes about peer pressure and how someone or something can influence you to act out of character. What I am wondering is other people’s perspective on the issue. I was researching this online and came across a debate website. This caught my attention because it not only showed the negatives influence but also it showed that it wasn’t negative. I got both sides of the topic, two opinions. “The human brain is wired to learn through repetition, so by listening to music, and especially repetition, the mood and lyrics in the song will become installed in that person's memory.” This quote is basically that when listening to these bad songs over and over your mind is programmed to accept it and you may start living and doing the actions you hear. That is something while researching I never thought about, it interests me how the brain does that. Based on the quote I am still in total agreement with you and one reason is because I see the children of my generation and i believe rap music rubs off on them. I believe some things would never happen if rap artists didn't say it was cool or did it. Thank you for writing, I look forward to seeing more from you because we seem to have the same logic of thinking and i can relate to your post. What will bring me back to read more is more debates on teenage things, I can relate to those topics.

Rap is a great genre of music yes some artist do influence youngsters to do certain things. Although most rappers do rap about sex, drugs, guns, and violence. Most rappers I listen to do talk about all these subject but that is because that is all they know they put their lives in their lyrics they want to keep it real. Listeners who listen to this type of music should be aware of what they listen to and what can be the consequences of doing so. But some rappers do not rap because they want to they do it for the money and to get police of their backs. For example one of my favorite artist is MAC Blast he’s a gang banger and he raps just for the money and I’m aware of that but its still good music for me. Most rappers clothing is white tees and some levi’s for common but once they start getting money they start changing and their wardrobe get better in brands which they advertise as well in music videos. If people do not like rap they should not be listening everyone has their own music type.

I am at lost for words by your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?" because your statement is very just an opinion base on what you think of rap music. In many ways one can argue that your statement is not based on facts.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money." I think this is clearly based on opinion because you are saying that all rap music is bad and relates to those things. You can't say a whole genre is terrible about that isn't true; someone might very well believe rap music is the best thing ever. Also there are many raps songs not related to sex, drugs, violence, or money such as "Can't hold us" by Macklemore, so that makes your statement false.

Another sentence that I shocked me was "They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them.." This stood out for me because I believe that just can't be true. In today's world many people are against violence and promote the opposite.

Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time I was on a train listening to music. During that time I experience two different type of music good and bad. I listened to a good one and loved and listened to the bad one because I already skip too many songs and Pandora wouldn't let me skip it. After the song ended I heard one lady listening to the bad song and loving it, and it made me wonder how different everyone's taste is. One me like it while another many hate it.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you do prove a point because it isn't completely false but I hope to see your provement when writing a statement.

Dear Matt:
I am intrigued by your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?" because it was interesting to see how rap music today can actually change the perspective of how kids view the world.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." I think this is outstanding because many people does not realized that the music they are listening to may numb the brain that is engulfed with alot of violence.
Another sentence that I liked was: "Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children." This stood out for me because you were able to argue both sides and understand that the post is suppose to be neutral.
Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time I was listening to “Good Kush and Alcohol” by Lil Wayne and my mother was disgusted by the lyrics. All she kept saying was to change the song because it speaks of drugs and violence and is demeaning to women. I understood where she was coming from and I thought to myself, why do rappers speak of those things?
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because this post was so creative and well-detailed and it seems to have some sort of knowledge of rap music in general.

Dear Matt:
I am intrigued by your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?" because it was interesting to see how rap music today can actually change the perspective of how kids view the world.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." I think this is outstanding because many people does not realized that the music they are listening to may numb the brain that is engulfed with alot of violence.
Another sentence that I liked was: "Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children." This stood out for me because you were able to argue both sides and understand that the post is suppose to be neutral.
Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time I was listening to “Good Kush and Alcohol” by Lil Wayne and my mother was disgusted by the lyrics. All she kept saying was to change the song because it speaks of drugs and violence and is demeaning to women. I understood where she was coming from and I thought to myself, why do rappers speak of those things?
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because this post was so creative and well-detailed and it seems to have some sort of knowledge of rap music in general.

Dear Matt:
I am intrigued with your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example for younger kids?," because I share the same opinion. Some rap songs and rap artists may be adulterating the minds of children.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable"?" I think this is accurate because the things that people my age say. As well as the things that they do resembles the message represented in many rap songs.
Another sentence that I noticed was: "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things." This stood out for me because i have had experience with good positive rap music. However people don’t often listen to that kind of rap music.
Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time I was talking with my friends about this rap artist that he idolises. He spoke of how he wants to be just like How although this rapper is said to be a criminal under house arrest. My friend could pass as being adulterated by the rap music and its glamour.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, music is something special that reaching everyone in a different way. I hope to hear more from you, keep up the good work.

Dear Matt:
I am intrigued with your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example for younger kids?," because I share the same opinion. Some rap songs and rap artists may be adulterating the minds of children.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable"?" I think this is accurate because the things that people my age say. As well as the things that they do resembles the message represented in many rap songs.
Another sentence that I noticed was: "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things." This stood out for me because i have had experience with good positive rap music. However people don’t often listen to that kind of rap music.
Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time I was talking with my friends about this rap artist that he idolises. He spoke of how he wants to be just like How although this rapper is said to be a criminal under house arrest. My friend could pass as being adulterated by the rap music and its glamour.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, music is something special that reaching everyone in a different way. I hope to hear more from you, keep up the good work.

I am surprised with your post, " Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids? ," because I can agree with some of the statements that you have said. I like that you made this because not a lot of people talk about the effect of music on kids.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "I think that these clothes are GROSS, and that in my opinion you must have no more than a fourth grade education to think that those clothes make you look good!" I think this is important to add because you reflected on the information. i also agree with this part. I think it's gross and some songs are all cursing and sagging pants which is now what a lot of people do.

Another sentence that I can totally agree on was: "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things. Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children." This stood out for me because most of the good rappers are barely noticed.I believe that most of the good rappers are not as popular but sing about things that mean something.

Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time I was on bed and my little sister was hearing my cousin play loud music. She heard a lot of curse words and began to repeat them. I think it has a bigger effect on kids developing because most of the time they don't know what they are saying and repeat what they hear.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because I like your explanation. I also liked that you gave both sides of the stories by stating the positives and negatives of rappers.

I am amazed by your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," because I totally agree with you. Personally, I think rap music today is DISGUSTING. In my borough rap music is blasted everywhere. I hate rap music with a passion because most raps give terrible messages. For instance, there is this terrible song called My N***a. It is basically promoting the “n” word as a way of greeting people. I think this is an imbecilic song because the use of the “n” word is appalling.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things. Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few. There are definitely some rappers out there who send a good message to children." I think this is so ridiculous in our society because if you really think about it, clean good lyrics do not make the billboard charts often. One rapper that usually keeps his lyrics clean is Macklemore. His song promote fairness among all. An example is his song Same Love. He basically rapped about human rights to same sex couples.

Another sentence that I thought was spot on was: "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex, drugs, violence, and money." This stood out for me because it is so TRUE! Our society romanticizes this kind of music thinking it is “cool” when it is not. Good music that has nothing to do with sex, drugs, violence, and money seems to be boring and stupid according to our society. What happened to the good music with good messages? You know what else is scary about rap music, children want to be and sound like those rappers!

I totally agree with you that rap music is adulterating the minds of children. Yes it is the WORST influence on children. One reason I say this is rap teaches children what is “cool,” such as the trend of sagging their pants, which is terrible! Another reason I agree with you is because rap teaches children bad grammar. What happen to complete sentences? Children be like (see what I did there?)... Rap also, teaches children that it is okay to say the “n” word, smoke, drink, and make life all about making money. This is HORRENDOUS!

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you and I seem to see eye to eye. What will bring me back is more contentious topics like this.

Dear Mattgriff
I feel like your post makes a lot of people feel glad "Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in" to this crowed?" MattGriff i see where your coming from Sex, money, drugs, and violence have a big impact on the youth today kids hear this music in their easy and feel like its ok to smoke and have sex but life is much more of a bigger picture theirs more to just having sex and smoking, not only because you wanna be successfully in life but in the future you don't want to be living off the government on public assistance. Instead of rappers promoting drugs and objectifying women they can be promoting kids to finish college and graduating high school to have bigger goals in their life.

Dear Matt:
Although rap is a genre, it is one that is very explicit when it comes to violence and sex. In today's culture it is extremely common to only hear about drugs, violence and sex in rap. I don't know if its because that's what some rappers believe will sell the most, or if its what they'll make the most money out of but it seems to be working.

Thanks to rap music some kids think their actions will have no consequences. For an example, if you ask a young boy why he did something wrong, he'll respond by saying it was because his favorite rapper did it. Just like you, I do think rap music has an influence on kids. The rappers themselves, I guess are just rapping about what they want to rap about. It just depends on the person listening to decide whether they want it to influence how they think or not. However, they should be aware of the fact that their music does actually influence the people who listen to it, including young kids.

Getting on the internet, posting your opinion and then defending it; is something not everyone has the guts to do and I respect you for doing that. I look forward to seeing you write more about your inputs on different topics.

Dear Matt:
Although rap is a genre, it is one that is very explicit when it comes to violence and sex. In today's culture it is extremely common to only hear about drugs, violence and sex in rap. I don't know if its because that's what some rappers believe will sell the most, or if its what they'll make the most money out of but it seems to be working.

Thanks to rap music some kids think their actions will have no consequences. For an example, if you ask a young boy why he did something wrong, he'll respond by saying it was because his favorite rapper did it. Just like you, I do think rap music has an influence on kids. The rappers themselves, I guess are just rapping about what they want to rap about. It just depends on the person listening to decide whether they want it to influence how they think or not. However, they should be aware of the fact that their music does actually influence the people who listen to it, including young kids.

Getting on the internet, posting your opinion and then defending it; is something not everyone has the guts to do and I respect you for doing that. I look forward to seeing you write more about your inputs on different topics.

Dear Matt:
I am touched by post, “Is rap music a bad example for younger kids?," because it shows that you care about how the younger generations are being influenced. Also, you make it clear that young children should be protected by what is being put out there in the rap world.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money." I think this is controversial because there are many rappers out there that rap and make music about positive things. What you wrote is categorizing all rappers as terrible role models. Another sentence that I liked was: "And in this "article" the writer seems to have the same opinion as mine and states that "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence" This stood out for me because you only addressed the negatives about rap music and not the positives.

I do respectfully agree with you that rap may be influencing young people in a negative way. One reason I say this is because bullying rates have increased in many schools and people think that the source comes from all of the violence and aggression presented in many rap songs. Another reason I agree with you is because I liked the fact that you clearly presented your points.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you have made some provoking points. I would also like to see your rebuttal on the topic.

I am amused with your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?”,because I totally agree with you. Rap makes people act or dress a certain way which is not so good.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money." I think this is true and bad because it just isn’t right to have a mind that only thinks about things like that. It teaches teens and even younger kids that acting or thinking that way is ok when it’s not.

Another sentence that I read was: "I think that these clothes are GROSS, and that in my opinion you must have no more than a fourth grade education to think that those clothes make you look good!" This stood out for me because I agree with you 100%. The clothes that the rappers wear are bad. It shows others how it’s cool to wear clothes below your waist or not where a shirt or something and kids shouldn’t learn that.

I do strongly agree with you that “Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children." One reason I say this is because even though we have rappers all about drugs, money, and girls, we have others that actually send a good message to others. Another reason I agree with you is you stated “Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in to this crowed?” This ran across my head because this means that people will do things just to follow others so it they would be seen as cool.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because I look forward to read any other topics you have to talk about. This was an interesting topic.

Dear Matt
I am curious about the influence of rappers, specifically Chicago rappers, on teens after reading your post "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?” because it shed light on the good and bad influence of rappers on young adults while commenting on the dangerous conditions of people who live in Chicago. It is of course known that the insidious, tough streets are what have created these rappers. These rappers are influencing young adults everywhere, so I want to find out about them as a group.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable" and that there are no "consequences" for these actions." I think this is interesting because music, in my opinion, is supposed to solace the soul and let someone relax. Music that young people are listening to, however, is used to feed the anger and evil spirit of someone raised in tough situations. Rather than try to change them for the good with positive, uplifting music, it feeds the cold-hearted nature they were taught.
Another sentence that surprised me was: "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence." This stood out for me because that means that a lot of people like listening to violent types of music. This shows how people were raised. To be ok to listen to music about killing or robbing another person means that you were raised in that lifestyle, which is a problem because as a nation we have to make sure that people are not grown as “savages” and as people that can help society rather than be detrimental to it.
Your post makes me think about the way this music has influenced my friends. I can guarantee that all of my friends have at least one Chief Keef or Lil Durk song on their playlist. Lil Durk and Chief Keef, who are apart of Chicago’s growing drill music scene, have a hold on the youths of America. My friends will usually come up to me and say “Did you hear that new Chief Keef or Lil Durk song.” This goes to show you that kids pay attention and are interested in violent music.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because your writing is very informative and interesting. I like that you put your own personal opinion into it while still respecting others.

Dear Matt:
I am pleased by your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?", because I as well wanted to see if I am the only one who thinks that rap setting a bad example for young kids as well. I love rap but not the type of rap that provokes teens to commit very stupid actions that they will regret.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money." I think this is accurate because if we look at Lil Wayne’s lyrics, all we are going to find is how he did a girl that likes to be disrespected and just says so much about the drugs that make him feel good. Another example would be the song “The Motto” by Drake, Lil Wayne and Tyga. All they did was provoke teens to do stupid things because of their motto, “You Only Live Once (YOLO)”.

Another sentence that I saw was: "Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in” to this crowed?" This stood out for me because to me I find it that kids are pressured to wear and do what is popular. It is an interesting sentence where people can be the judge of that.

I don't really agree with you that rap in general is a bad influence. One reason I say this is because I hear rap almost 24/7 but I do not do any of the stupid actions mentioned in the songs at all. Another reason I disagree with you is because not all artist just talk about sex, drugs, and violence. Many rappers like Eminem talk about life and getting to success. Other rappers show how they feel about a certain topic like the government or areas around the world.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because I like how you were thinking on the areas to rap. I also think it is interesting to see teens actually sort of go against rap like that.

I am impress by your post , "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," you state every single fact about why it is bad such as all of the cursing.

Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time when i was walking home with a friend he told me that he left his phone one blasting rap and his little brother heard and started to curse to him and his parents and my friend got in trouble.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because everyone can relate to this topic because it always happens to many people not just the ones that are live the worst of neighborhood

Dear Matt:
I am surprised about your post "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?" because you state some facts about this post you made. I agree with some things you mention in your post.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." I think this is somewhat true because most kids that listen to rap music is very effect and influence to what the rappers says. Also their some that know that some of what the rappers is saying is a negative effect, but most of the time the case is that the kids are in a negative influenced.

Another sentence that I thought was a good question was: "Are kids being pressured by this music because it's “what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you “fit into” this crowed?" This stood out for me because I do believe many follow this type of music just to fit. They think that doing what the music says will make them important. That is not true because many of these songs is just a negative effect.

Your post reminds me of something that once did research on . It was a class project that I had done. It was a class project about how music had an influence on kids. I had discuss about how rap music had a negative effect on teens.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because I would like to know what other things that people do that have a negative effect on kids or others. I would to like to hear your opinions on things.

My thoughts and opinion on this article is that a lot of music from this generation isn't really setting too much of a good example in general , the reason why I say this is because all music talks about is girls , money , cars and us as kids shouldn't be worried about those things till later on in our life. I mean me as an 18 year old young man don't like hearing the same thing and subject in every rap song that's my personal opinion other people might see it in another way or have different perspectives on this topic.

Dear Matt:
I am fascinated by your post , "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?" because it is a controversial topic that has most certainly caused major disputes in the past amongst the media and concerned parents.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." I think this is true because as you can see at much of our youth nowadays they are getting involved in gang violence and many teenagers don't live to be 25 due to violent music that has polluted the minds of many.
Another sentence that I found to be captivating was: "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence." This stood out for me because all most rappers seem to rap about nowadays is killing for money or because they were part of the opposing gang.
I agree and disagree with you that rap is setting a bad example to its younger audience, but not all rap can be bad. One reason I say this is because I listen to rap music on a daily basis and as you can tell by the way I speak that I’m not a violent nor illiterate being. Another reason I agree and disagree with you is because I believe it is based on the type of rap that a person listens to that will affect him/her. For example, if a rapper is singing about guns, drugs, and/or gang violence on a song of course it is going to affect a child negatively. The song is praising belligerent behavior and if that rapper is becoming rich and famous by doing those things then the younger kids are going to follow those footsteps. Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because your posts are not only relevant to our era, but worth discussing as well.

Dear matt :
I am fascinated with your post, “Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?”, because I actually do truly believe that in the rap culture today its all about sexually content,violence,and provocative words, which are not appropriate for younger kids. Others might argue that it is the parents’ jobs to make sure they their kids are listening to music is appropriate for their age, but parents can not always be with their kids and making sure to what they are listening to.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "I would also like to address the clothing that most rappers wear. I think that these clothes are GROSS I think this is important because most rap music videos have people sagging and most of the time the rappers are not even wearing t-shirts and they are wearing gold chains and this is very nasty. When children watch those music videos they tend to want to become like the rappers because they look up to those rappers and want to be them because when they see them with the gold chains and driving fancy cars they covet those things so they tend to want to act like them and dress like them.
Another sentence that I found to be very interesting was," Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit into this crowed?" This stood out for me because sometimes kids do certain things just to be accepted by the people around them they want to fit in just like the other children who listen to rap music. Rap music is considered to be cool and popular among kids because of the bad inappropriate message that is being interpreted in the videos and lyrics, so if a kid wants to be considered cool they would most likely be peer pressured into listen to rap music even if they are not interested in it.
I do strongly agree with you that rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable" and that there are no "consequences" for these actions, because when kids watch music videos and they witnessed the rappers doing bad things they don't get consequences for that so the kids starts thinking that if the rappers can do then they can most likely do it too. One reason I say this is because kids are not smart enough to realize that what they see on TV or in music videos is not how the real world is and it’s certainly not how they are supposed to behave. Another reason I agree with you is because kids thinks that what music videos portrays is realistic and they can also do it because they find to be cool and fun because their favorite rappers doing and they seem happy doing it so they would want to do it too.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because I think your post was very interesting and it totally got my attention, I totally agreed with the points and facts that you had to prove. I found your post to be very clearly explained and you proved your point of view without being too harsh to other who might disagree with your opinions. Excellent job I really enjoyed your post and can't wait to see what you post next.

I am interested with your post, "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," because sometimes i do wonder to myself if music setting is bad for younger kids to hear or not. Sometimes i feel like if kids listen to music with curses and stuff that it is their parents fault and not theirs because their parents allow them to listen to that type of music. One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable" and that there are no "consequences" for these actions?" I think this is interesting because there are some types of music who give teenagers bad example, for example if a famous singer is saying that hitting people is ok many people will begin to follow that concept because someone they look up to said it. Another sentence that I liked was: "I would also like to address the clothing that most rappers wear. I think that these clothes are GROSS, and that in my opinion you must have no more than a fourth grade education to think that those clothes make you look good! ." This stood out for me because I actually agree with you, i think that the way that many rappers dress set a bad example to the younger kids out there. Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time when i was about 9 years old i love to hear to rappers sing on the radio but when i saw them on tv i felt really gross that i liked music like that when they are setting a bad example for me.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because i really liked this post, it really caught my attention. Im so excited to see what you write next because i know il be interested in it. It was really good reading your post.

I agree and disagree with your post, "is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?" because is it true that in today’s rap culture everything you hear in the lyrics is either about sex, violence, money or drugs, and these are some of the main things that could settle a negative effect on kids and teens, and make them walk through the wrong path in life. However, rap is a great genre and part of the music history, and it could even serve as the perfect impetus for those who want to be positively great in life, and even become rappers too.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in” to this crowed?" I think the answer to this question is yes, because most kids and teens nowadays are willing to do anything and everything in order to become “popular”, and “fit in the group.” They act as if they are really about that life, but in reality, most of them just pretend to act like that because that’s what makes people cool and popular, nowadays.

Another sentence that I agreed with was: "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things. Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children." This stood out for me because it is true the fact that fortunately there still exist few rappers who rap about positive things, like becoming successful in life and earning money, which is good, even though they may also have dirty lyrics in their songs. However, it would not make all kids “bad” if they don’t let themselves be negatively influenced by it. For instance, I love listening to rap music, and it hasn't affected my behavior or way of thinking because I don’t let it influence me.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next because I really enjoyed your point of view on this topic, and I want to see what’s your opinion on other topics.

I am intrigued with your post "Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?," because your post spoke about a great dilemma that’s going on in today’s time. People do wonder if the music we listen to today is affecting the younger children.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money." I think this is interesting because if you closely read the lyrics to the songs we listen to you can notice some very inappropriate things in the lyrics. Depending on the type of music you listen too in this case of rap, not many rap artists give out good messages for younger children.

Another sentence that I was interested in was " Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children." This stood out for me because you do bring up a valid point in terms of the types of rappers this days. Not all rappers talk about sex, drugs and violence.

Your post does not remind me of something that happened to me. But i was very happy i choose to read it and listen to your point of view.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you chose a very interesting topic to write about and i was amused by the certain valid points you had brought up in your post.

I am interested in your post, “Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids?”, because rap music can be censored any time in life. It not only rap music that are setting bad examples for kids but other things as well.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money. Are all of these things setting a bad example to the youth of this generation? Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit into this crowd?" I think this is interesting because most kids do what they hear or see. Younger kids often do things to be popular or to be known.

Another sentence that I found was: " Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few there definitely are some out there who send a good message to children." This stood out for me because there are not many rappers out there who rap about things in life. Things that are going on around the world, and to make it a better place. Eminem is a good clean rapper, he doesn't rap about how he gets money, shooting. He speaks about life, and how people can not see what is going on the world.

Your post reminds me of something that happened to me. One time i had sat down in my room, and took a song from Chief Keef, and Eminem. I listened to both of them and interpreted the lyrics. Chief Keef rapped about money,weed,and fame. Eminem rapped about life, how we still have a chance to make the world a better place, and it did not have any violence in it.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because it interested me a lot to read something that is happening and affecting younger kids around the world. Younger kids often follow what they see just to become popular. They like to act as their favorite celebrity and do all these things that their favorite rapper does.

I am surprised with your post because sometimes music can influence a kid and sometimes it reflects on the rap song they are listening to.Ya the rap songs might have bad words or violence or sexual word.

One sentence you wrote that stands out to me is”I think that these clothes are GROSS, and that in my opinion you must have no more than a fourth grade education to think that those clothes make you look good”.This stood out to me because some kids do dress gross like sagging their pants and I think they dress like this because it might reflect a rap song or something.

Another sentence you wrote that stands out to me is”Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence.”I think this is true because sometimes I hear songs with violence and bad word.

I do agree with rap music being a bad influence on younger kids.One reason I agree with this is because kids sometimes think that cursing is good and violence is good and all those bad things are all good but it’s not.

Thanks for your writing.I look forward to seeing what you write next,because rap music can influence a younger kid with bad words and violence.

I think a problem many of us are forgetting the separation betwen music and the ideas that such music is based upon.

I believe rap as a form of music is very intricate and actually quite positivly stimulating in an art form itself.

There's nothing wrong with music in general in any form.

However,

I believe the rap culture that influences the degenerate ideas withing it's lyricism is abolustely abomitable.

Many of you guys are right: lots of the content that is expressed in the*majority*of rap is not just morally wrong on based on some people's beliefs but ethically wrong based on the law and common sense. Killing, raping, abuse, obsessive-dominance etc. are just as examples that are
all wrong no matter what walk of life you come from and is clearly not for youth to listen to.

Many think it's odd, but I only listen to CCM Rap which is why I don't hear this type of junk from rap music. And CCM rap as well as some few other rappers are the type of rapper that people should be truly encouraged to listen to today.

Most rappers make us think they talk about life, but moslty from what I've seen unethical rappers just talk about their own. And I get it, because the most real thing to relate to in any art is your own experiences.

We can say that every listener has the choice to turn off unethical music and the responsibility to properly make that decision or not, but at the same time all musicians, including rappers have their own responsibility to properly consider what their listeners are recieving from their music if it's really ethical or not. One may say that don't have that obligation, but they morally do on their own accord, otherwise if they don't consider that, then they're just rapping for themselves and not rapping for others to listen.

And otherwise such rappers are no better than hypocrites if they actually believe they are rapping about life and the world.

Where the hell did you hear that 8 out of 10 rap songs contain violence in them? Dude, it's not even close to that much. Rap music today basically just talks about what it's like to be rich, you don't really hear much of that gangster stuff anymore. Eminem and to a certain extent, Lil Wayne, are the only mainstream rappers that actually consistently have any violence at all in their lyrics. Idk about the underground rappers but mainstream rappers mostly just talk about being rich.

ive read this article and im actually not surprised to hear about rap music containing violence or any sexual contact. coming from the bronx i hear rap music everywhere i go , but it is surprising to see young kids have such an influence by big name rappers and artists all over the world. maybe the rap industry, one day , will consider the children in our community.

Dear MattGriff,
In your article “Is rap music setting a bad example to younger kid?”, you agree that it does. Well in my opinion, I feel like rap music is a great genre. It all has a story behind it, and it opens a door for kids, to let them know what’s going on in the other side of the world.

Dear MattGriff:
I am astonished by your post, "Is Rap Music Setting a Bad Example to Younger Kids," because even though I do agree that the music kids listen to have an effect on them, I don't fully agree with what you are saying. One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Are kids being pressured by this music because it's "what's in" and in order to be "popular" you have to listen, and act like you " fit in" to this crowed?" I think this is a good question but I don't believe that music is pressuring the kids to do anything. The people do what they want, even though music does have influence over the people. Another sentence that I noticed was: "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence.." This stood out for me because that's a big number and it's shocking to see how much violence is actually in the media. I do believe that the artists should be more aware of the messages they are sending out to their listeners. Music is a big part of mostly everybody's life especially young children. They look up to these people that are giving them these horrible messages. Even though I do not believe the music forces someone to act a certain way, I do believe that the kind of music you listen to has an influence in your way of life. Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because your opinion was intriguing and I agreed with most of what you said.

While some rap music does over glorify those things, all of it doesn't. J.Cole is a perfect example. What song do you know by him that talks about guns or murder? Will Smith is also a rapper, he never uses any profanity in any of his lyrics. I also disagree about what you said about how they dress, because that is implying that all rappers dress the same. Every artist has their own particular style, some might be similar, while others are drastically different.

Dear Matt Griff,
I agree with your post "Is Rap Music Setting a Bad Example to Younger Kids?" because there's too many young kids who are listening to rap music and its influencing them to do the wrong thing. I believe that rap music is setting a bad example towards younger kids because kids shouldn't even be expose to cursing, sex, etc. at such a young age.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence. They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." I think this is very eye opening because not many people see statistics on how many rappers use bad language knowing there's a lot of young kids who look up to them.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because not only students should know about how bad rappers are putting a bad influence in kids but also parents need to look out for what their kids listen to.

Dear MattGriff,
I also think rap is badly influencing kids. One thing that really got my attention was when you said that “In today's rap culture all you hear about is sex,drugs,violence,and money” I think its stands out to me because its very true. Another sentence that got my attention was "Eighty percent of the rap music that is currently on the top ten lists around the world contains violence” i thinks its true because not many rappers not rap about violence. I live in Oakland Ca where rap music is big and i can see people trying to act like the music they listen. I not saying rap music music is bad just that the most popular are the one with negative music, but that's just my opinion.

Dear MattGriff ,
I do agree with your post, "is rap music setting a bad example to younger kids" because kids are influenced
One sentence you wrote that stands out to me is: "They glorify the acts of beating up another person, or even worse shooting them." I think this is true because in many rap songs, they rap about how “cool” it is to be the one with the gun or the one beating up another person.
Another sentence that I agreed with was "some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things. Although the numbers of rappers who do this are very few " This stood out for me because its true many rappers try to talk about positive thing but the majority talk about negative topics.
I agree with you that rap music is a bad influence. Another reason I agree with you is that rap makes kids believe that drugs and violence are acceptable.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because I enjoy reading your point of view on rap.

I agree that some rap songs are showing a bad influence to all children around the world. Although some people think rap songs are cool and they like how it sounds, kids around the world don't actually listen to the beat but actually to the words. This is why some vulgar records have a warning on the cover so that less kids would get influenced by this.

I really liked that you stated, "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things." I agree, there are many rappers that know how to keep their lyrics clean, however, there are those rappers who think it's away to "express their feelings" by using profanity. Yes, most of the time they rap about sex, drugs and violence. That's really immature of them.

I really liked that you stated, "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things." I agree, there are many rappers that know how to keep their lyrics clean, however, there are those rappers who think it's away to "express their feelings" by using profanity. Yes, most of the time they rap about sex, drugs and violence. That's really immature of them.

I really liked that you stated, "There are some rappers however who keep their lyrics clean and try to rap about positive things." I agree, there are many rappers that know how to keep their lyrics clean, however, there are those rappers who think it's away to "express their feelings" by using profanity. Yes, most of the time they rap about sex, drugs and violence. That's really immature of them.

I agree with your argument about rap setting a bad example for younger kids because now a day rappers only talk about violence, hoes, and clothing. One sentence that stood out to me was “Is rap music being used as a tool to make kids believe that these things are "acceptable" and that there are no "consequences"”. This sentence really explains how rap effects the intellect of younger kids and how it motivates violence. I think that most present day rapper are setting a bad example on the youth and also making rap look like a music genre revolving around violence.

Yes rap is a political tool, for the military industrial complex to create unthinking soldiers for the global agenda (you may know it as NWO but I prefer to call it the global agenda, it sounds a lot more legit and that's what world leaders are referring to it as these days).

On a somewhat lighter side, still yes, it's programming kids to think being loud, violent, ignorant, stupid, mindlessly conformist, self-destructive, and superficial. Not all rap, but lets be honest, the majority of the rap fan-base is a top 20 fanbase, they shit all over the underground or positive rap for having human qualities. The popular rap is pure anti-human in every since of the word, they value negative behavior and condemn positive behavior. Again I'm not saying everyone who listens to rap is like this, but a strong majority of them are. And the rappers promote this way of being. If they can listen to the music and not take it so seriously, and think they've gotta go join a gang and shoot innocent people, or that theyr not allowed to have any morals because morals are "weak," (ironically they want other people to treat them with morals lol), it's almost a point among the rap culture to not have any positive qualities, any self respect (because what kind of self-respecting individual will dumb themselves down on purpose just to follow a pop culture trend? Or degrade themselves for popularity? Or for "bitches"?), I know I'm white so I'm not supposed to say this but I'm gonna say it, because this is the truth, rap is responsible for more black deaths than AIDS.

And yes there are white kids who get into this shit too, their just as stupid and just as much a part of the problem. So they don't get off any easier. But rap is heavily rooted in the black populace. It was a tool given to them by (mostly white) corporate boardroom executives to keep them in line with the banking agendas, to trian blacks to hold themselves down... "Da man" don't have to hold blacks down anymore, he's trained them to hold themsleves down on auto-pilot and blame everyone else-- especially white and asian people. I've known plenty of respectable, educated, intelligent, hard working blacks whove put in the work and made something positive of their lives, and they got my respect every bit as much as every white person or brown person, or asian person, etc who have done likewise. But let me tell you something, life doesn't give anyone something for nothing.

Not all rap is about that kind of stuff! Only the garbage that the major record labels put out because it sells. There is a whole underground rap scene that artists like "Hopsin" or "Atmosphere" have build a huge fallowing outside the radio and tvs and they promote no drug use or violance at all. They may cuss sometimes but their message is positive and uplifting. Do not slander a genre of music when your an outsider looking in. I can recall hearing country songs promating cocaine use (johnny cash), drinking exsessive amouts of alcohol (many artists) and quiting your job. How is that any different from hip hop? Like i said there are rappers that are a huge hit with the kids that dont promote those things negative that country does... By the way ranting on the internet about hip hop is not going to make it go away. Actually the more you act like a close minded fool trapped in a state of adult mediocrity and badmouth hip hop the kids will love it even more. The more the adults dispise it the youths love for it will grow like the flame in a forest fire. Knowledge.

The problem today isnt within music, its within culture. Im a 13 year old female and I listen to rap, but I dont like sensless rap about drugs and money, I like rap which posesses a connection between the artist and the listener. But the problem with us children is that we dont get diciplined enough like our parents before us, music is our freedom you cant force someone to like a certain genre,(minors dont haverights as it is, at least give us our music) but, if a child gets in trouble a parent should punish them (the severety based on the trouble).

When I say punish I don't mean abuse, I mean taking a phone away, slapping (not hard enough to leave marks), spanking (again not enough to leave marks), etc. Though this sounds crude it will keep our generation in check. Many people get overly defensive over stupid things, and in my opinion it's because they want a reason to argue. All of the arguing gets America no where. Honestly our country isn't free, and progressively gets worse by the min.

But like I said, the music isn't the problem. The problem is the people leading us and our generations parents. society is changing there is going to be what adults call "explicit" dancing and music and things like that, but, society is changing whether you like it or not.

Not to mention the adults now most likely did stupid things, and listened to bad music. you adults have forgotten what it's like to be a teen (rebellious) we don't know who we are yet, the only thing you can do is guide us, remeber we arent you, and pray we make it out alive.

I disagree with your argument. Rap music is a form of culture, just like any mode of expressing one's self. Though I think that there is in fact a lot of violence in the music of most rappers, this is because of the environment around them. I don't think that rap music is extremely influential in the lives of young people, though I do acknowledge that popular culture plays a huge role in the development of young people, however I believe there are bigger influences. For example when young people go to college they no longer have the safety net of their parents. So if parents shelter their children from this "dangerous rap music" they will have a very rude awakening when they enter the real world. I disagree with your argument but I really respect your ability to put your thoughts out there.

You make some valid points about the rap music of our generation but I believe artist's don't create rap music for children. Artist's express raw events that have happened to themselves through music which is one of the reasons why many people may consider their music so explicit. I think if children want to be exposed to the harsh reality of different parts of the world they should listen to rap music but if not they should protect themselves by refraining from it. I think everyone should be able to express themselves in anyway they choose and if people don't like it they can ignore their form of art. Overall, I think you make valid points about how we are raising the upcoming generations.

To deny the negative lyrics of a lot of the mainstream rap today would be ridiculous, however, generalities should be avoided. I consider myself a very well-studied rap listener, and the simple fact is, rap can't be defined by one word. Rap is a genus with many specific species. I'm glad you did mention the positivity that some rappers do bring to the table, but I believe you may be overlooking it. Every rap enthusiast can say that there has been a shift in the radio's selection, as rap has become more negative over time. However, this can't, and shouldn't, speak for the genre in it's entirety. The statistic about 80% of the radio's rap containing violence is a chief example of this. "Radio" rap tends to align itself more closely with pop in a sense, and focuses less on the appreciated lyricism. People listen to it, in large part, for it's beat and energy, opposed to the message of the lyricist much of the time. Also, references of violence may not always influence negativity. For example, Tupac, renowned as the best rapper by many experts, supported peace. However, he used his violent past to better convey his message, and reflect on his experiences and views of society. At the end of the day, rap listeners still have their choice of selection. Perhaps if they are drawn to lyrics supporting violence and corruption, this illustrates their character, opposed to them being influenced and changing.

Hi Matt!
I completely agree with your position on how rap is setting a bad example for children. Children look up to the rappers and want to be just like them. If the children's idols are constantly talking about violence, sex, drugs, and money, the children will eventually want to try them. When things are glorified then people are going to be more likely to try them. Nice job using facts! Keep up the great work!

I believe that rap is indeed misunderstood. There are many sides to this, but in reality, rap music is what you are able to take away from it. Rap music might have bad language, but the message from it will be much deeper. I personally enjoy rap music and have never found it to negatively take away from what my life has to offer, or the messages that are perceived from it.

Being a teenager who has grown up with rap surrounding me my entire I find it very easy to connect with this issue and I agree with you on many points. I do believe that rap music has created a culture in which it is okay to demean women and use violence to solve all your problems, however to what extent is this truly affecting our youth? Personally most of the kids I know that listen to this music are not deeply affected by the lyrics enough to act in such a way that portrays the music itself, I believe that most people know what is right and wrong and only listen because they enjoy the music.

I think that some rappers don't always have the best interest for their listeners which do spread a lot of hype about "popping bottles and getting women" however I do think that there are a lot of rappers out there who just want to share their story and allow others to connect with what they're rapping about. A lot of what rappers are talking about is their own life experiences and they hope that by talking about them it will inspire other people and let them know that if you're in a bad place or living in the projects or what have you they also have a chance to escape it just like they did.

I disagree with your assertion that rap music negatively influences today's kids. I will not contest the content of rap music; it is often provocative and may contain language or tones that is offensive to some. I understand where the argument comes from, I just think it is simplistic to relate a type of music and the quality of a kid, or their character. Music is nothing more than something you listen to, and that alone does not cause a child to be negatively influenced. You must first look at other variables and factors in that certain kid's life before making assumptions purely based on music. I know many people including myself who listen to rap and don't feel like or have noticeable influence from the music. In the end, choices made and attitudes come from character and personality, and really how a kid is raised. Music has little to no effect on a child's development and rap itself cannot be the sole cause or reason for setting a bad example.

Hi, my name is Miranda and I go to Judge Memorial Catholic High School. Thank you for writing this post, I can tell you put a lot of time and thought into it. I see where you are coming from when you state 80% of rap songs contain violence however I also know most rappers are relaying their real life experiences in their raps.

While I think it can be a bad influence for children to be exposed to violence in music I think it can be argued it is worse for children to live this violence. I think the argument should be less about the tangible music one can CHOOSE to listen to and more about the children who have no choice but to live in abusive and toxic home environments because at the end of the day they are more at risk.

I like how you wrote about both sides of the argument. I look forward to reading more of your thoughts on this topic.

Matt,
I respectfully disagree with your statement. I feel that rap music is a new way to express yourself and while most of the songs are indeed explicit they carry a message with them. As with any genre, you will have those artist and their songs that talk about nothing and have a catchy beat to keep people listening. However, I think that most rap tells a story about life, relationships, and other things that most adolescents go through. And yes, a lot of rapping is about violence. But then again, most video games are about violence too, and there are studies that prove that these don't correlate, the same way they don't correlate for music. When it comes to clothing, some rappers do wear their pants too low or wear do-rags. However, this is just pin-pointing one genre and criticizing it. Rock stars wear flamboyant outfits too, and country singers dress like cowboys. It doesn't really matter their clothing, either. If someone sees a rapper sag their pants and they decide they want too as well, let them be. It doesn't really affect anyone else but themselves, and they can look stupid all they want :). I think your first paragraph is irrelevant, respectfully. I know plenty of people who don't ever listen to rap, and I know people who only listen to rap. I don't think that because rap is one of the more recent genres of music it means that everyone has to listen to it to be cool because "it's in."

While discussing this topic I think it's important to keep in mind that rap is not the only genre that talks about violence. Violence has a universal appeal to musicians because many people can relate to it. Take for example Hozier's "Cherry Wine", a song that glorifies the violence in a domestic relationship, but its genre? Indie soul.

Matt, I definitely agree with you on many of the points you made about the rap culture and the messages it tends to send; however, I believe that it is not the rap music itself that is harming the children, but rather the way children are raised. If we teach kids what is ethically right and wrong from a young age, we can give them the ability to distinguish these two opposites for themselves. Then, they will be able to make their own decisions based on the good examples we set for them. This sort of bad culture is something that is inherently part of society nowadays through media in movies, video games, music, and more, therefore it is impossible to get rid of altogether. Through simply teaching the youth, we can help lessen the impact of the rap culture. They can then see rap music as simply the form of expression it is, rather than using it as some example for how they choose to live.